What’s the secret to turning a beloved story into an unforgettable experience and why do the products you take home matter just as much as the moments you experience on-site?

In this episode, we sit down with Sol Armada De La Cruz, Warner Bros. Discovery’s Director of Retail Strategy, to unpack how she helps transform iconic worlds like Harry Potter into real-life adventures, right down to the carefully crafted products waiting in the gift shop. We explore the delicate balance of fan connection, cultural adaptation, and why the right merch can turn a fleeting moment into a lifelong memory.

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In this episode, we welcome Keyana Mohammadii, Head of Marketing for Dave’s Hot Chicken UK, to uncover the journey behind one of the hottest food launches London has seen in years. Keyana shares the full story of how Dave’s, a cult LA brand that started with just $900 and a parking lot pop-up, built a viral following and a loyal community — and how that momentum translated across the Atlantic.

They dive into the strategy behind the UK launch, from secret pop-up events and influencer collaborations to preserving the brand’s authentic LA roots while adapting to British food culture. Keyana also reveals the challenges of building hype, creating a community from scratch, navigating cultural differences, and the clever social tactics that helped turn curiosity into queues around the block.

Plus, hear about the role of the founders’ personalities in shaping the brand DNA, why celebrities like Drake got involved, and a few hints about what’s coming next for Dave’s Hot Chicken UK.

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Today, we’re delving into The Secret to Engaging Global TV Audiences with Killer Formats—an art form that masterfully blends knowledge, expertise, instinct, results-driven strategy, and a bit of risk-taking. How do you take a show from concept to global phenomenon? What role does audience data play in shaping killer formats? And when do you trust your gut over the numbers?

Guiding us through these questions and more is Ella Umasky, ITV Studios’ VP of Format Acquisitions. She’ll be sharing her expertise on what it takes to captivate audiences across the globe, how to adapt formats for different cultures, and what separates a format that fades from one that leaves a lasting mark

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